Easter Sunday Soccer Showdown – 2nd Annual Stand Up and Support: Anti-Bullying and Suicide Prevention Senior All-Star Game

Captains Announced for 2026 GSF Stand Up and Support All-Star Soccer Game

The stage is set for the 2026 GSF Stand Up and Support: Anti-Bullying and Suicide Prevention Senior All-Star Soccer Game, as team captains and honorary captains have officially been announced ahead of this year’s highly anticipated matchup.

Taking place on Sunday, April 5, 2026 (Easter Sunday) at Oak Grove High School (San Jose, CA), this event brings together elite talent from across the Greater Bay Area, while promoting a mission far greater than the game itself.

Team Captains Revealed

Head coaches Manny Borrayo (Team 5-Star) and Armando Padilla (Team HEROES) officially introduced their captains following an extremely competitive selection process.

With rosters filled with team captains, All-League players, League MVPs, and athletes from league, section, and regional championship programs, the decision was not easy for Padilla and Borrayo. Each selection was based on a combination of on-field performance, leadership, character, and academic excellence.

A minimum 3.0 GPA was required, and this year’s group carries an impressive 3.88 average GPA, highlighting the complete student-athlete.

Team HEROES Captains

• Raul Ramos  – Christopher Cougars
• Mateo Alvarez – Gunderson Grizzlies
• Cruz Velazquez – Piedmont Hills Pirates

Raul Ramos is one of the most dangerous attacking players in the Bay Area, finishing the season with 18 goals and 8 assists. His creativity and scoring ability make him a natural leader on the field.

Mateo Alvarez brings elite-level experience from MLS Next and the ability to impact the game in multiple positions. His composure and soccer IQ set him apart.

Cruz Velazquez anchors the defense with consistency and leadership, earning All-League honors while establishing himself as one of the top defensive players in the Bay Area.

Team 5-Star Captains

• Miguel Camacho Jr – Santa Clara Bruins
• Diego Hernandez – Hollister Haybalers
• Patrick McGuirk – Mountain View Spartans

Miguel Camacho Jr. is one of the most accomplished players in the game, earning MVP honors, All-League recognition, and selection to the U16 US Futsal National Team.

Diego Hernandez is a proven winner and leader, playing a key role in a CCS Championship team while earning All-League recognition.

Patrick McGuirk is a dominant defender with a championship resume, including NorCal and CCS titles, as well as Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Honorary Captains

Announced by Coach Luis Comesana, this year’s honorary captains represent decades of excellence, leadership, and service to the game.

• Roland Hedgpeth
• Frank Quintero
• Payam Hajjarian
• Jim McGuirk
• Víctor “Muma” Bernárdez
• Bryce Filippini
• Josue Salgado

Roland Hedgpeth is a legendary figure with over 55 years of coaching experience, highlighted by 33 league titles and 11 CCS championships.

Frank Quintero has dedicated 24 years to coaching and developing players, leading San Jose High School to league success and CCS competition.

Payam Hajjarian is a mentor and educator with a background in service, including time in the U.S. Air Force, and a strong impact on student-athletes.

Jim McGuirk recently retired after a remarkable 38-year career with 418 wins, multiple championships, and CIF Coach of the Year honors.

Víctor “Muma” Bernárdez is a former professional standout with the San Jose Earthquakes and the Honduras National Team, now giving back through coaching and mentorship.

Bryce Filippini brings 28 years of coaching experience and a passion for player development, including work with athletes of all abilities.

Josue Salgado is a rising leader in the game, with experience at the collegiate level and a background as a Division I player at UC Santa Barbara.

More Than a Game

While the talent on the field will be undeniable, the mission behind the event remains the most important.

The GSF All-Star Soccer Game serves as a platform to raise awareness for anti-bullying and suicide prevention, using soccer to bring communities together and create meaningful impact.

“I’m super thankful for Coach Luis, Coach Armando and Coach Borrayo. These rosters are loaded with talent. But the most important part of this experience are the two issues we are addressing: bullying and suicide. I want to thank the players who went on record to be part of the campaign. Thank you to the parents who allowed their players to participate and represent their community.”

— Alf Joaquin

Event Information

• Date: Sunday, April 5, 2026 (Easter Sunday)
• Location: Oak Grove High School, 285 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose, CA 95126
• Gates Open: 4:00 PM
• Warm-Ups Begin: 4:30 PM
• Admission: $10 (Adults)
• Students: Free with school ID

Fans are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy All-Star warmups and the full game-day atmosphere.

Looking Ahead

With elite athletes, respected leaders, and a powerful mission, the 2026 GSF Stand Up and Support: Anti-Bullying and Suicide Prevention Senior All-Star Soccer Game promises to be an unforgettable event.

This is more than a game — it’s a movement, a platform, and a community coming together to support something bigger than sports.